Orchitis - inflammation of the testes in cats

The impact on the entire body or its parts of various factors of a mechanical or thermal nature leading to dysfunction of organs or systems is called trauma. The name itself, trauma, comes from a Greek word meaning damage to integrity.

Injuries in a cat can be single or multiple, or combined with each other - fractures of bone structures with bruises of internal organs. There are also combined injuries - for example, bone fracture and thermal burn.

Types of orchitis

Orchitis is an inflammation that spreads to the tissues of the testes. The lesion involves either one or two organs. In the second case, the process is more extensive and the course of the pathology is more severe. Often, the lesion first occurs on the appendages (epididymitis), and then moves to the testes. Experts distinguish three types of orchitis:

1. 
   Macroscopic. It manifests itself as extensive damage to all testicular tissues. They become swollen and painful. Epididymitis and periorchitis are associated with inflammation of the testicles.

2. Microscopic. The factor that causes it is azospermia, that is, a lack of sperm in the seminal fluid. This is of paramount importance in the diagnosis of orchitis.
3. Lymphocytic. This is the most dangerous type of orchitis, as recovery is rare. When it occurs, a malfunction occurs in the body when the immune system perceives the testicles as a foreign object. Lymphocytes begin to actively “attack” them, leading to reproduction. It is believed that genetically predisposed animals are susceptible to lymphocytic orchitis. Factors that provoke its appearance are infections and injuries.

If timely treatment is not provided, any type of orchitis can lead to infertility and, in severe cases, death.

Causes

If a cat has swollen eggs, then veterinarians pay attention to the following causes of swelling:

• traumatic injuries. The pet can get them during a fight. As a result, bruises, wounds, and abrasions are formed, through which microbes easily penetrate, provoking an inflammatory reaction;

• 
  damage to the skin of the scrotum due to burns of various etiologies (thermal, chemical), as well as frostbite.

• infectious diseases of a bacterial or viral nature. Of particular danger is brucellosis, meningococcus or Proteus infection;
• diseases of a transitional nature. Often the inflammatory process migrates from the organs of the urinary system. These diseases include urethritis, cystitis and others;
• mycoses. Diseases caused by fungal growth are quite common.
• Complication. If a cat's testicles are swollen after castration, this is due to dirt entering through the wound, the procedure being carried out under unsterile conditions, insufficient cleansing of the scrotal cavities, and tissue separation.

The reasons that cause swollen eggs in cats pose a danger to the health of the pet.

Dangers of Feeding Eggs

There is a dangerous myth that eggshells are immune and protect the contents from bacteria. This is partly true, the surface of the egg is indeed populated by bacteria, but they are not specific immune cells. These are the same microorganisms that live on the surface of the skin of adult birds. They create an environment unfavorable for some fungi and bacteria, but this is not a reliable protective barrier.

The myth that eggshells are impenetrable is also incorrect. Some parasites and microbes can penetrate through this barrier. The most dangerous and common pathogen is salmonellosis. For these reasons, you can feed your pet only store-bought eggs that come from laying hens that undergo regular veterinary examinations.

Eggs from your own household farm should be given only after thorough boiling, which is guaranteed to destroy all dangerous bacteria. This also applies to quail eggs. All stories that quail are resistant to salmonellosis are a myth. This type of bird is no different from chickens in terms of resistance to the pathogen.

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Symptoms

There are quite a few signs of orchitis, the main symptoms include:

• 
  swelling, pain, increased temperature of the testes and their appendages;

• changes in the scrotum: redness, soreness;
• constant licking of the cat's genitals;
• inactivity;
• lack of appetite, refusal to feed;
• heat;
• infertility in severe cases;
• weakness, lethargy, apathy, refusal to play;
• if the inflammation is caused by improper castration, then there is a strong increase in the scrotum and pus leaking from the wound.

These symptoms are indicative of determining the cause of inflammation accompanied by swelling of the testicles.

How to prevent poisoning

If the cat is domestic and does not walk outside, then preventing poisoning is not difficult:

• All chemicals, medications, household chemicals, cosmetics and perfumes must be removed from its access zone. Cabinet doors must have a reliable lock, because some pets can easily open them with their paws.
• You need to pay close attention to your diet and avoid purchasing food that is of questionable production or has expired. If your pet is fed natural food, then you need to be selective in your choice of food, and do not leave food in a bowl for a long time;
• remove indoor flowers from the house whose leaves and stems are poisonous;
• observe the dosage of flea and helminth medications;
• Do not self-medicate for any disease.

Diagnosis and treatment

To find out the cause of inflammation, the veterinarian will carry out special procedures: collecting an anamnesis about the pet’s life, nutrition, and illnesses; examination to determine the degree of swelling, the presence of compactions; blood and urine tests; ultrasound diagnostics of the scrotum and abdominal organs. If necessary, a biopsy is performed - taking biological material to determine the causative agent of the inflammatory process. After diagnosis, treatment is prescribed:

1. Washing wounds and scratches on the skin with antiseptics (Chlorhexidine, boric acid or potassium permanganate solution).
2. Antibacterial drugs for the bacterial nature of inflammation - Amoxicillin, Azithromycin, Ceftriaxone, Enrofloxacin.
3. Anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve inflammation - Meloxicam, Vetalgin, Quadrisol, novocaine blockades.
4. Applying cold for scrotal injuries, starting with heat on the 4th day.
5. In severe cases, castration is required, even if the cat is used for breeding.
6. For mycoses - topical antifungal drugs.
7. For exacerbations, therapeutic massage is prescribed.

If a cat has swollen testicles, it is recommended to immediately take him to the veterinarian for diagnosis. Timely treatment will not only save the pet’s reproductive abilities, but also life, since any inflammation leads to serious complications.

Cat with swollen and red testicles due to dermatitis

In addition to orchitis, a cat may have swollen and red testicles because it comes into contact with an irritating substance. This leads to so-called contact dermatitis. Certain plants, paints, synthetic fibers, cement, medications, shampoo and many other substances can cause this reaction. In these cases, the cat will become agitated and upset, often scratching with more or less intensity depending on the substance that is causing the skin condition.

At first, the affected skin will appear red. If left untreated, the skin may thicken and darken in the shade. We need to look at what is causing the reaction to prevent the cat from coming into contact with it again. In addition, the veterinarian will prescribe appropriate treatment. Such treatment usually consists of topical corticosteroids. Finally, testicular injury should be treated with anti-inflammatories and will take some time to reduce the inflammation...

Orchitis in animals

Orchitis is an inflammation of the gonads (testes) in animals, characterized by pathological processes in the male testicles, which causes disruption of the development of germ cells and infertility.

One or both testicles are affected, most often together with the spermatic cord (epididymitis), which leads to the development of orchiepididymitis.

Causes of the disease:

1. trauma (bruise, bite, wound)
2. damage to the skin of the scrotum (chemical/thermal/biological burns, frostbite, scratches and abrasions), through which infection penetrates
3. overheating, hypothermia
4. infectious diseases due to which pathogenic microflora penetrates from other areas into the genitourinary tract
5. helminthic and parasitic infestations
6. radiation

In some cases, orchitis in animals is secondary to damage to the vaginal membrane of the testis or scrotum.

The development of pathology is promoted by:

1. inflammatory processes in the kidneys, bladder, urethra
2. diseases of the prostate gland, prepuce, penis
3. purulent lesions of the skin • diseases of the digestive system (protozoa, bacilli, cocci, lamblia, helminths)
4. decreased immunity (stress, old age, acute and chronic diseases)
5. diabetes mellitus, vitamin deficiency
6. unsanitary conditions
7. violation of content rules
8. poor monotonous food

Negative factors, combined with a decrease in the body’s defenses, as well as pathologies in the male genital organ or vas deferens, lead to inflammation of the testicles.

Swelling of the mucous membrane and a change in the environment in the tubules are accompanied by dilution of the secretion of the gonads and impaired sperm formation, as a result of which the animal develops infertility.

Treatment of this pathology is long-term, the prognosis is questionable.

Clinical signs of orchitis in animals

The disease is accompanied by general depression of the animal and attacks of anxiety, as a result of which sleep and appetite are disturbed.

A sick male exhibits:

• increase in general and local temperature
• swelling of the scrotum
• enlargement and tenderness of the testis (testicle is hard to the touch)
• the animal moves with its limbs spread wide and its stomach drawn in
• with a unilateral lesion, the hind paw is set aside on the side of the diseased organ

If left untreated, the testicles shrink, becoming small and hard. The animal completely loses its ability to reproduce.

Functions of the testes in the body of male dogs

In dogs, like in any other species of mammals, the reproductive (genital) system consists of internal and external genital organs (testes, epididymis, vas deferens, scrotum, penis, prepuce, gonads).
The testes (testicles, testicles) are a sac-like protrusion of the abdominal cavity. They have an ovoid shape. Located in the scrotum - a muscular sac. They are the main paired reproductive organs of the male, endocrine glands.

Functions of the testes in the body of male dogs:

• Production of male sex hormones – androgens (testosterone). Formed in the interstitial tissue of the testes. Testosterone is involved in the production of sperm, has an anabolic effect, is responsible for sexual reflexes, and determines sexual behavior.
• Formation, primary maturation of germ cells - sperm in the convoluted tubules of the testes.

The testes of dogs are paired oval organs located inside the scrotum in the ventral part of the perineum. Inside the scrotum, the testes are separated by a medial suture of connective tissue. The size of the testes in mature males is directly proportional to body size (Table 2).

The sizes of the testes range from 1-5 cm in length and 1-3 cm in width.

The body of each testis is surrounded by a layer of dense connective tissue, the tunica albuginea. Spermatogenic cells and Sertoli cells, which support sperm development, are concentrated on the walls of the seminiferous tubules in the testicular parenchyma. Connective tissue divides the testicular parenchyma into wedge-shaped sections that contain interstitial cells that secrete testosterone (Leydig cells).

After maturation under the influence of testosterone and pituitary gonadotrophs, sperm migrate from the testicular parenchyma and accumulate in the epididymis, which is attached to the craniomedial surface of each testis. The widest part of the epididymus is the head. As it passes around the cranial pole of the testis, the epididymus gradually narrows.

The testicular arteries arise from the abdominal aorta caudal to the renal arteries. The testicular veins form the pampiniform plexus, a complex network of small veins that envelop the testicular artery from the cranial pole of the testis to the inguinal ring. This venous plexus along the levator testis muscle and the muscle tissue within the scrotum keeps the blood temperature in the testicular artery below body temperature for optimal spermatogenesis.

The testes, epididymus, vessels and nerves distal to the inguinal ring are surrounded by the tunica vaginalis, which continues into the peritoneum. The spermatic cord is an extra-abdominal neurovascular complex that consists of testicular and lymphatic vessels, nerves and the vas deferens, surrounded by the tunica vaginalis.

Ultrasound image of the testes is normal. Ultrasound examination of the testicles visualizes medium-grained homogeneous parenchyma surrounded by a gynerechogenic tunica albuginea (Fig. 1 A and B).

The medial suture of connective tissue is visible as an echogenic line if the testis is scanned along the longitudinal axis, and as a spot in the cross section. The epidilymus tail appears as a bright mass attached to the caudal pole of the testis. The epididymal head is smaller, but has the same echogenicity.

Testicular neoplasia There are three main types of testicular tumors in dogs: Sertoli lung tumors, seminoma and interstitial cell tumors. Their incidence is approximately the same. However, in descended testes, tumors from Srgoli cells are found one and a half times less often than other types of tumors.

In a study of macro- and micro-disorders of the testes in the Department of Pathology at Cornell University, 446 canine testes were examined between 1990 and 1990, of which 109 contained Sertoli cell tumors, 143 semipomas, and 143 iherstitial cell tumors. Clinical symptoms are mainly a palpable increase in the size of the testis in the scrotum or abdominal cavity. Small tissue tumors are not palpable, but can interfere with the passage of sperm in the epididymium.

Sertoli cell tumors have the highest potential for malignant transformation of all canine testicular tumors. Approximately 10-20% of them metastasize. These tumors develop from Sertoli cells in the spermatic tubules. These are the most common testicular tumors in cryitorchidism.

Precancerous changes are found in the mitochondria of Sertoli cells in young male dogs with cervical thorchidosis. Tumors from Sertoli cells in the testes located in the scrotum can reach large sizes (10-15 cm). On palpation they are nodular and dense. Symptoms of ginsestrogensism are often associated with Sertoli cell tumors. Parasoplastic syndrome associated with hyperestrogenism includes the following manifestations: aplastic anemia, bilateral symmetrical alopecia, gynecomastia and attractiveness to other male dogs.

Seminomas are usually benign testicular tumors that are masses of soft tissue inside the testes (5-10% of them are metastatic). Most testes are small (1-2 cm in diameter), but when the testes are in the abdominal cavity they can grow into large formations. These tumors develop from epithelial tissue inside the seminiferous tubules.

Interstitial cell tumors develop from Leydig cells in the testes. They are almost always benign and usually present as small soft tissue lesions within the testicular parenchyma (Figs. 2 and 3).

Most of these tumors are found by chance during iscropsy. Interstitial cell tumors rarely develop when the testes are in the abdominal cavity.

With the help of ULI nevo. it is false to differentiate these three types of tumors. Each type of tumor will create changes in the echogenicity of the testicular parenchyma (Fig. 3). Larger tumors tend to develop an increased number of blood vessels, which will be more tortuous. V malignant tumors.

Testicular tumors are best treated by orchiectomy. From a clinical point of view, the stage of cancer is determined by chest X-ray examination and ultrasound of the abdominal cavity. If you have any suspicions. that the testes in the abdominal cavity contain a neoplasm, during abdominal orchiectomy a thorough examination of the abdominal cavity is performed. Most often, metastases are found in the lumbar lymph nodes, spleen and liver.

In more than 50% of cases, metastases of testicular tumors respond well to treatment with a combination of drugs - vinblastine. cyclophosphamide and methotrexate (Madeuelland Feiland, 1987). Semnoma metastases in dogs are amenable to radiation therapy (McDonald et al. 1988). However, in most cases, at the time of diagnosis, there are no metatals yet, and the tumors are completely cured orchid.

Testicular infection The testes and/or apididymus may become infected through penetrating wounds or through hematogenous or pulmonary spread of infection from other areas. It is also possible for the infection to spread from the urinary tract or prostate gland through the vas deferens. Acute orchidididymitis causes swelling and pain in the scrotum.

We suggest you read: Enterocolitis in cats, signs and treatment of intestinal inflammation

Chronic infection can lead to sterility due to the destruction of spermatozoan tissue. In a study of macro- and micro-disturbances of the testes in the Department of Pathology at Cornell University, 446 testes of dogs were examined for the period from 1990 to 1996, of which 26 cases had orchitis.

Epididymitis orchiepidymitis can be caused by a variety of microorganisms, including staphylococcus, streptococcus, colibacteria, mycoplasma, ursanplasma and Brucellacanis. Brucellacanis infection needs to be diagnosed especially carefully because it can be transmitted to other dogs and humans. The site of Brucellacanis infection is in the prostate gland and endidymus, and can be spread through urine and semen.

Brucellacanis does not usually cause orchitis; it is localized to the tail" of the epididymus, where local inflammation can cause sperm leakage (Figure 4). The immune response to seminal granuloma results in swelling and inflammation of the epididymus. Orchielidymitis is diagnosed based on the results of a general examination - swelling of the scrotum, pain and fever.

If brucellosis is suspected, an agglutination test or other similar tests are performed, which are described in various textbooks. Bacterial culture of ejaculate helps to identify other microorganisms! anisms that can cause orchiditis if present in sufficient quantities. The sample is placed in Amiss medium, which also allows the isolation of mycoplasma, ureanplasma and aerobic bacteria.

Orchitis - inflammation of the testes in cats

In veterinary practice, specialists are much more likely to deal with diseases of the reproductive system of females than males, and there is a simple explanation for this. For example, it is quite difficult not to notice endometritis or pyometra, since the general condition of the animal in the case of these pathologies is very serious, and without veterinary care it may simply die. Many diseases of the male reproductive system occur without noticeable symptoms , and therefore the owners often do not notice them until the last moment. A classic example is orchitis in cats.

What it is?

This is called inflammation of the testes. For the reasons stated above, veterinarians often have to deal with an already chronic, advanced form of the disease. The pathology can be either unilateral or bilateral. It is not difficult to guess that in the latter case it is more severe. Very often, the pathological process first involves the appendages of the testes (epididymitis,). Only later does the inflammation spread directly to the testes.

Types of orchitis are macroscopic, microscopic and lymphatic. Technically, macroscopic orchitis appears as swollen, painful testicles (that is, all the organ tissue is involved). This is usually accompanied by epididymitis and or periorchitis (inflammation of the lining of the testicles).

Microscopic orchitis has been seen in cats with azoospermia. More precisely, the absence of a normal volume of sperm in semen (this is azoospermia) is a distinctive symptom of microscopic orchitis.

Dinitz et al. (2005), in a study of diseases of the reproductive system in cats, notes that in 18% of animals, inflammatory lesions of the testes are somehow associated with leishmaniasis. However, for our country this is not so relevant, since this protozoonotic disease occurs (most often) in tropical and subtropical zones.

Lymphocytic orchitis is a type of autoimmune pathology when the testes do not pass the “control” of the body’s immune system and are recognized as a “foreign object”, as a result of which the organ is attacked by lymphocytes. As a rule, this process leads to complete destruction of the testicle. Scientists believe that such a disease can develop only in initially predisposed animals, and the “trigger” for its appearance can be any injury to the testicle, an infectious disease of a bacterial or viral nature. The main clinical sign is infertility and lack of sperm in semen (when both testicles are affected).

It should be noted that for lymphocytic orchitis, castration is recommended , since the chances of recovery are close to zero. If you doubt the relevance of castration/sterilization of pets (not of breeding value), we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the opinion of a veterinarian:

Tumors in cats: causes of cancerous tumors

No veterinarian can say exactly why a cat has a cancerous tumor. Some believe that living with pets near humans predisposes to an increase in the percentage of sick pets. For example, feeding cats food high in preservatives, flavorings and other chemicals introduces substances into the body - carcinogens that disrupt the structure of the cell's DNA, leading to its mutation and uncontrolled division.

Cancer is a term that refers to a whole group of diseases that cause the formation of tumors in the body of an animal. Tumors, or neoplasms, are collections of degenerated, abnormal cells with an altered genome that grow and divide to the detriment of healthy tissues and organs, disrupting their functions, capturing them more and more and spreading in the body through the bloodstream and lymphatic system. Normally, the immune system monitors and destroys mutant cells every day, preventing them from reproducing.

It is difficult to determine exactly what exactly started the oncological process, but veterinarians are inclined to believe that there are factors predisposing to a cancerous tumor:

There are five stages in the development of the oncological process:

Effective treatment of a tumor is highly dependent on the time it is detected. The earlier cancer is diagnosed, the higher the chances of healing and long life.

Therefore, careful attention to the cat’s health plays the main role here, and the following signs of a tumor in cats should alert you:

Main causes of the disease

Let us list the basic causes of orchitis in cats:

• Injury. Any wound or scratch in the genital area is potentially fraught with inflammation.

• Bite and laceration wounds are especially dangerous , since in this case pathogenic microflora gains almost unhindered access to the organs.

• It can occur during infections , and brucellosis, meningococcal infections and Proteus are especially dangerous in this regard.

• often lead to the development of severe forms of orchitis .

Characteristic symptoms of the disease

Orchitis has localized and general symptoms. Common symptoms are:

• fever, weakness, lethargic indifferent behavior, fever may occur;
• dog's refusal to eat;
• the animal tries to sit down very carefully, behaves tensely, and is clearly afraid of hurting itself.

Only a veterinarian can make an accurate diagnosis. Localized signs include manifestations in the scrotum area:

• an increase in the size of the testicles, with an increase in their temperature;
• irritations and small open wounds on the testes, which the animal often licks;
• When you touch and feel the scrotum, the dog feels severe pain, breaks out and whines.

Symptoms and therapy

Let's look at the main symptoms of orchitis in a cat. There are quite a lot of them; an attentive owner will probably be able to notice at least some of these clinical signs:

• Soreness and swelling of the testicles . The most specific symptom of inflammation is that the testes are noticeably warm.
• Soreness and swelling of the testicular appendages .
• In many cases, the scrotum : its skin also turns red and becomes painful.
• The cat constantly licks his scrotum.
• The animal walks with extreme reluctance , fearing to once again disturb the inflamed testicles.
• Refusal to eat , complete loss of appetite.
• Intermittent fever
• Infertility (this symptom is especially important and indicative for breeders).
• The cat becomes lethargic, apathetic , and tries to hide in a remote and dark place.
• Sometimes the pain is so severe that the animal bites its testicles , causing scratches and wounds to appear on them.

What is the treatment for orchitis in cats? Since in most cases the nature of orchitis is infectious, broad-spectrum antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents are prescribed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to relieve inflammation . Novocaine blockades have a good anti-inflammatory effect. With the traumatic nature of orchitis, applying cold to the affected tissues is indicated. On the third or fourth day, you can start using heat, including paraffin applications. If the animal’s condition raises concerns for its life, they resort to therapeutic castration (even if the cat has breeding value).

What to do if your cat constantly licks his genitals

If you notice that a cat or kitten often licks its testes, you need to think about it and find out the possible reasons for this behavior.
Undoubtedly, males lick their genitals for hygiene, for example, after visiting the litter box or performing natural needs. But if cats lick eggs frequently and intensely, among the possible reasons that are worth paying attention to are:

1. chronic cystitis, urethritis;
2. inflammation in the genitourinary tract;
3. pathologies, kidney diseases;
4. violation of the feeding regime, combination of natural food with dry, canned food;
5. ICD, presence of kidney stones;
6. neoplasms in the organs of the excretory tract;
7. inflammation of the paraanal glands.

In males, excessive licking of the perineum can be caused by inflammation of the prepuce. Preputial lubrication is located in the folds of the skin. Covers the penis. In healthy males, a small amount of whitish-yellow smegma accumulates around the preputial opening, which is normal. With inflammation, bloody substances and pus can be seen in the secretion.

A cat constantly wants to lick eggs in case of acute cystitis, other pathologies in the organs of the urinary system, as well as after castration.

If a kitten or cat licks its eggs after castration, but the animal’s condition is stable, there are no uncharacteristic symptoms - this is normal. After surgery, some time is required for tissue restoration, so the cat will lick the postoperative suture. Animal saliva has antibacterial properties and contains the enzyme lysozyme, so regeneration processes occur faster.

If castration is carried out in adulthood, the period of adaptation and hormonal changes in the body occurs more slowly and will take longer than in a kitten.

In case of deterioration of the condition, excessive discharge, suppuration of the suture, wound, fever, swelling of the groin area, immediately contact your veterinarian!

READ Why does a cat refuse food and drink for several days: what to do?

If your pet constantly and frequently licks the testes throughout the day, you need to find out the root causes of this behavior. In any case, we recommend that you contact a veterinary center or clinic, where a veterinarian will examine the cat and make a diagnosis.

If a cat licks the seam after castration, to avoid injury and inflammation, put a protective collar on your pet. In case of severe pain, painkillers and analgesics will be prescribed.

In case of inflammatory processes that occur in acute or chronic form in a kitten or cat, treatment is carried out with complex systemic broad-spectrum antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, which are intended for general and local treatment.

Additionally, your pet may be prescribed immunomodulatory drugs, vitamin complexes, hormone therapy, enzymes, and homeopathic remedies.

If the reason lies in improper feeding, the veterinarian will prescribe a therapeutic diet and food. If the kitten or cat is kept on ready-made food, purchase premium, “extra” class products from well-known brands.

Diseases of the reproductive system

All diseases of the reproductive system of cats can be divided into two groups: diseases that affect males and diseases that affect females. As with most species of mammals, representatives of the weaker half are most susceptible to this group of diseases. If in most cats there are only two diseases of the reproductive system, then in cats there are much more of them. This is explained, first of all, by the high load that pregnancy and childbirth place on the animal’s reproductive system.

Is it possible to feed cats eggs?

A cat can and should be given eggs, as from them it receives many vitamins, microelements and beneficial amino acids. This product has contraindications - diabetes, urolithiasis and other disorders that are rare. It is advisable to feed boiled eggs, but raw eggs can also be fed.

Diseases of the reproductive system of cats

Depending on the individual characteristics of the body, cats can reach sexual maturity at 5-9 months. It is at this age that the production of sperm by the testes begins, and the diseases listed below can already develop.

Hypersexuality.

As a rule, this disease causes more inconvenience to the owners of the cat and the animal kept together with the “culprit” than to the patient himself. This is explained by a natural sexual desire that has gotten out of control and taken an asocial form. The animal does not experience pain, but its behavior becomes aggressive, it begins to mark its territory, it may perceive its owners inadequately, etc. Symptoms of the disease include: enlarged testicles, aggression directed at owners or other animals, loud meowing (especially at night), attempts to mark territory. The most effective method of treating hypersexuality is surgical castration of the animal, however, if the cat is planned to participate in breeding, this method is unacceptable. In this case, the veterinarian will help you select homeopathic treatments that reduce the animal’s sexual activity.

This is an inflammation of the testicles that may result from a bacterial infection or injury. Unlike the first disease, orchitis poses a serious threat not only to the health, but also to the life of the cat, since in advanced cases it leads to blood poisoning. Symptoms of orchitis are: painful and enlarged testicles; difficulty urinating; elevated temperature; weakness and limited mobility. The classic symptom of the disease is a slow, unsteady gait with the hind legs widely spaced. Treatment is prescribed by a veterinarian after visiting the clinic and usually consists of taking broad-spectrum antibiotics and homeopathic medications, as well as light massage of the inflammation area.

Diseases of the reproductive system of cats

A cat's reproductive system includes the uterus, ovaries and mammary glands. Diseases of the reproductive organs in cats are more extensive than in cats.

This is an acute or chronic infectious inflammation of the uterus, which is most often a complication of pregnancy and childbirth. Predisposing factors: trauma to the uterus during childbirth, as well as retention of fetal tissue in it (afterbirth, dead kitten, etc.). Symptoms: fever, general depression, decreased appetite, lack of interest in kittens. In addition, your cat may experience a foul-smelling vaginal discharge. Diagnosis of the disease is carried out both on the basis of clinical signs and after an X-ray or ultrasound examination of the animal’s uterus. In extremely rare cases, it is possible to stop the infection with conservative treatment methods, but, as a rule, metritis is treated with surgery. The disease poses a serious threat to the life of the animal, therefore, when the first symptoms appear, it is necessary to immediately take the cat to the veterinarian.

This is an infectious disease that affects the uterus. Just a few years ago, it was generally accepted that pyometry mainly affects older, unsterilized cats that have never given birth. However, in recent years, cases of young animals of reproductive age suffering are increasingly being recorded. In addition, cases of infection have been recorded in sterilized cats when the uterine stump was affected. Symptoms of the disease are numerous, including fever, general depression, frequent urination, and vaginal discharge with an unpleasant color and odor. The diagnosis is made based on examination and the necessary instrumental and laboratory tests. Most often, a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the inflamed uterus) is recommended.

This is an inflammation of the cat's mammary glands, which is based on a bacterial infection. Most often, mastitis develops in the postpartum period due to stagnation of milk during lactation. Mastitis can also develop due to injuries and mechanical damage. The development of the disease is accompanied by severe pain in the mammary glands, their redness, swelling and local increase in temperature. The cat often licks her nipples. The diagnosis is made based on the clinical picture. Treatment is prescribed by a veterinarian, and if his recommendations are followed, the prognosis is favorable. However, it is worth remembering that at the first signs of mastitis, it is necessary to isolate the kittens from the mother, since with acute septic mastitis, bacteria enter the cat’s milk, it becomes toxic and can cause poisoning and even death of the offspring.

Tumors in cats: types

Tumors in cats are classified into benign and malignant in nature. As the name suggests, the former are much easier to deal with.

Signs of a benign tumor in cats:

• slow growth process;
• painlessness;
• limited - the tumor is located in a capsule that prevents it from spreading into neighboring tissues;
• When surgically removed, such a tumor does not metastasize and the animal recovers.
A malignant tumor in cats is much more aggressive in nature and manifests itself with the following signs:
• fast growth
• metastasis - transfer of diseased cells to other organs and tissues through the blood and lymph flow
• bleeding
• soreness and intoxication of the body
• are difficult to treat, surgical intervention does not always lead to a complete cure.

The skin, mouth, stomach, intestines, reproductive organs and mammary glands, as well as leukocytes (white blood cells) are more susceptible to developing cancer in cats.

Read also:  What to do if your cat has a bump on his head?

Reproduction

In cats and kittens, puberty occurs at the age of 6-8 months. It is at this time that they are ready to give birth. However, the age at which male cats are able to produce offspring may vary depending on the conditions of detention, breed, and nutrition. It is worth noting that puberty occurs earlier than the animal’s body is fully formed, so the first heat does not at all indicate readiness to give birth. Therefore, the best time for a cat to give birth is no earlier than 8-9 months.

Cats are polycyclic, characterized by sexual seasons and reflex ovulation. The sexual cycle is the changes that a cat's body goes through from ovulation to ovulation. Females are ready to mate only during estrus, males - at almost any period. If a cat is mated to several males, then the litter may contain kittens from different genetic fathers. At the age of approximately 10 years, animals stop hunting sexually (the manifestation of sexual reflexes).

When fertilized, the cat becomes pregnant and lasts about 60 days. Then childbirth takes place, during which 3 to 6 kittens appear. They are born without teeth, blind and deaf. The weight of a newborn kitten is no more than 70 grams. Childbirth lasts up to 5 hours, at the very beginning the cat begins to behave restlessly and makes a nest. When a kitten is born, the cat begins to lick it, bites through the membrane, removes it, and bites off the umbilical cord.

Signs of poisoning

The symptoms of poisoning in cats are varied, but only a few of them may appear. Common signs of poisoning in cats:

• nausea, which is expressed by the pet licking its nose very often, while smacking its lips;
• salivation;
• vomit. It may be mixed with bile or blood, or it may be without impurities;
• diarrhea;
• lack of appetite;
• rapid breathing, often shallow;
• abdominal pain, which may be accompanied by meowing, or may only be noticeable when pressing on the abdomen;
• temperature increase;
• pupil dilation. Sometimes the third eyelid becomes noticeable in poisoned animals.

In addition, the behavior and general condition of the pet changes. There may be lethargy or, conversely, overexcitation. Coordination of movement may be impaired. In severe cases, tremors, seizures, and paralysis may occur.

If symptoms are detected and the cat may have been poisoned, then before you start doing anything at home, you need to make sure of this. Such symptoms may indicate not only poisoning, but also other serious diseases. It is important to find out whether the cat has been poisoned or not as quickly as possible. It is necessary to analyze what could have caused it. If the cause is not found, it is better to immediately contact a veterinary clinic for diagnosis and treatment.

Treatment for poisoning in cats differs from treatment for other diseases with similar symptoms. If you draw the wrong conclusion, you can do harm and waste time. Particular attention should be paid to kittens, especially when the kitten has been poisoned by a large dose of poison.

Sexual diseases in cats

Typically older cats are susceptible to this pathology. The disease occurs when microorganisms enter the prostate tissue, causing it to become inflamed. The source of infection can be a purulent/inflammatory process in any part of the body.

This disease has several forms:

purulent - the secretion contains an increased content of leukocytes and pathogenic microflora;

catarrhal - urination becomes more frequent, especially at night, the content of leukocytes is also increased, palpation reveals soreness of the gland;

parenchymal - also with pain on palpation, possible increase in body temperature;

fibrinous - the animal experiences pain in the perineum, pain when urinating, and increased body temperature;

Diagnosis of the disease must be carried out by a veterinarian, taking into account the results of urine tests. Antibiotics and analgesics may be prescribed for treatment. The cat also needs to be provided with warmth and normal feeding, and add more vitamins to the diet.

This disease manifests itself when the testes or surrounding tissues are injured/infected. As a result, the cat may lose the ability to fertilize. With orchitis, the animal's body temperature rises, the scrotum swells and becomes larger, and the testicles hurt. He moves slowly, spreading his paws wide. The cat may be prescribed antibiotics for treatment; rest, warmth, and massage are also recommended.

Penis bone fracture

Cats get this type of injury when mating or during fights. The cat experiences severe pain, and a rustling sound is heard upon palpation. A fracture is diagnosed by a veterinarian using an x-ray. A simple fracture can be cured (a fistula is inserted for this); in particularly severe cases, amputation of the organ may be recommended.

Methods for diagnosing tumors in cats

When contacting a veterinarian with a suspicion of an oncological process, the doctor will prescribe the following examinations: laboratory tests of blood and urine, ultrasound, x-rays, MRI, computed tomography, endoscopy and histological studies. In some cases, a biopsy is performed to determine the nature of the tumor.

In cancer treatment, the location of the tumor, its type, and the stage of the disease play a role. Cancer cannot be treated with folk remedies and herbs; you will only waste time and soon your pet. In the early stages, surgery to remove the tumor, chemotherapy, radiation and immune therapy are used. All this is decided individually by a veterinarian; it is not easy to predict the result at the beginning of therapy, since each cat will react to treatment and fight the disease in its own way. Proper treatment will completely defeat the cancer or achieve long-term remission, prolonging the full life of your pet.

In the later stages of the disease, it is no longer about recovery, but about reducing suffering and improving the general condition of the little patient. After considering the situation, the owner may decide to euthanize the pet in order to save it from prolonged suffering and pain. Naturally, having heard a terrible diagnosis, you should not immediately give up and give up; you should listen to the doctor’s opinion. Nothing prevents you from having your animal examined in different clinics if you are in doubt about the diagnosis and prognosis of the disease.